Canadian Man Files Lawsuit After Ex-Girlfriend Allegedly Runs Away With Lottery Winnings
A man from Winnipeg, Canada, has initiated legal action against his former girlfriend, accusing her of absconding with his CA$5 million lottery jackpot, equivalent to approximately Rs 30 crore, along with her lover.
Background of the Relationship and Lottery Win
Lawrence Campbell stated that he was in a loyal and committed relationship with Krystal Ann McKay for over a year and a half. Due to lacking a valid identification document, Campbell was unable to claim his lottery prize directly after purchasing a winning ticket in 2024. Following the advice of lottery officials, he entrusted McKay to collect the winnings on his behalf.
Without a personal bank account, Campbell permitted McKay to deposit the prize money in her own name. The couple publicly acknowledged the lottery win, recording a video verification at a retail location and posing for publicity photographs holding an oversized cheque. The win was reportedly presented as a birthday gift from Campbell to McKay.
Allegations and Legal Action
Shortly after the claim, McKay vanished, ceasing all communication and vacating their shared accommodation. According to Campbell's lawsuit, she was later discovered in a compromising situation with another man. His legal counsel highlighted that McKay not only refused to respond to attempts at contact but also blocked Campbell on social media platforms and obtained a protection order against him.
McKay has formally denied all allegations made against her.
Claims Against Lottery Authorities
Campbell's lawsuit, filed in Manitoba's Court of King's Bench, extends to the Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC) and Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries. He alleges inadequate guidance from these agencies and argues that they failed to inform him of the risks associated with allowing a third party to claim lottery winnings on his behalf.
His lawyer characterized the situation as a confrontation between systemic vulnerabilities and the institutions responsible for lottery prize administration.
Key Details
- Lottery prize amount: CA$5 million (~Rs 30 crore)
- Claim filed: Manitoba's Court of King's Bench
- Parties involved: Lawrence Campbell (plaintiff), Krystal Ann McKay (defendant), WCLC, Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries
- Issue: Alleged theft of winnings and lack of protection from lottery authorities
Conclusion
This case underscores potential risks associated with lottery prize claims, particularly when winners cannot directly claim their prizes due to identification issues. It also raises questions about the protocols lottery corporations maintain to safeguard winners' interests when third parties are involved.
